Build-up play under pressure: constructing and alternating between short passing game and direct play

This session focused on build-up play combines possession and pressing in a situation of numerical advantage, with real game situations alternating short and long distribution from the goalkeeper, perfect for improving the first phase of build-up.

Drill #1

Warm-up: Possession with numerical advantage and defensive pressing

By creating a numerical advantage situation for the attackers in a small space, your players work on both game awareness, ball movement, and ball retention (attack) as well as coordinated pressing (defenders)....

Drill #2

4v3 back to goal with build-up play for the defenders

Ideal exercise for a soccer school, it will allow your players to work on playing with their back to the goal as well as build-up play in a 4v3 setup that is quite simple to implement....

Drill #3

Build-up play from the goalkeeper and alternating between short passing game and direct play

Exercise focused on goalkeeper work and how players move when their goalkeeper has the ball in hand. The goalkeeper's decision-making is essential to determine whether it is preferable to play short or direct....

Drill #4

Double 3v2 with pressing from a central square

In this 3v2 (and 3v3 with pressing), your players will be able to work on coordinated press as well as transition play when losing the ball. Used by Mauricio Pochettino during his time at Tottenham....

Session Objectives & Focus Areas

Counter-pressing Defensive recovery / Tracking back Attacking transition Defensive transition Pressing Build-up play Duels Using width Overload Transition

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